Coming back to the Nursery after a long cold winter is always refreshing for the soul. As weird as it may sound to some, walking into the Greenhouse and smelling the dirt is one of the greatest scents to encounter. To me, that means it is just the beginning of a beautiful season about to bloom right before our eyes! Although it’s still a bit chilly out, there are some things you can take care of now to prepare for the 2018 growing season.
A few things I have noticed over the years is customers coming in later in the season with troubled fruit. Whether it be buggy fruit or even just spotted fruit and leaves, they are wondering, why this is happening and how do we keep it from happening? When it comes to apples for example, we see two common diseases show up often. Those diseases being Cedar Apple Rust and Apple Scab. Though some varieties are resistant to these diseases- most are susceptible. Fruit tree sprays or Orchard sprays are critical to preventing disease on these susceptible varieties, along with insect control. Sprays such as Bonide Fruit Tree Spray or Bonide Orchard Spray, should be done on a 7-10 day spray schedule to keep the protective chemical cover on the rapidly developing leaves and fruit. These sprays can be used on all fruit trees, shrubs and vines. These diseases are usually only a problem in April or May. Watch the temperatures, if spring hits us early (and here in Nebraska you never know) you may have to start these sprays now. If you have questions about treating your fruits to prevent disease and insect damage, stop in or call to chat with one of our knowledgeable staff!
Another question we always get is about what types of veggies can be planted outside now. We know how we all get that itch to get things started once we creep up on spring! A lot of us start some of our plants from seed inside while it’s still cold. Certain veggies can endure being planted in our cold spring temperatures as long as they have been hardened off or toughened up first by exposing them to sunlight and outside temps. Give these seedlings a little less water and lower temps to start hardening them up. Slowly move transplants (seedlings) outside in a shady protected area for a portion of the day. As the week goes on, move them to a more exposed sunny area. You can do this now with your cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and onions as they can withstand below freezing temp without being killed off!
Hopefully these tips will have your fruit trees and your veggies bug free, beautiful and delicious. Remember, if you have any questions, please feel free to stop by or give us a call. We are always here to help